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Step farther this way. (Leading her to the opposite side of the Stage, near the door of Guzman's chamber.)

The time is precious, my most charming mistress!

Let me speak plainly in few words. Thou know'st
How much I fear Romiero's apt suspicion.
Delay were dangerous: therefore by the dawn,
In the dark grove of pines, meet me, prepared
To quit with me the castle, and for life
To share my lot. Deny me not: time presses;
O let me urge thee!—As for life I plead.

BEATRICE (after a pause).

What can I say?—I feel I should not say it.

And yet I feel thou dost not plead in vain.

MAURICE.

Thou 'lt meet me then,—do not retract thy words.

There is no time for slow deliberation.
Thou 'lt meet me by the dawn?

BEATRICE.

Yes; I will meet thee in the grove of pines.

Enter at the bottom of the Stage a Servant, who whispers to Jerome, and then retires, upon which Jerome advances hastily to Maurice.

MAURICE.

What is the matter?